Don't get Bit by your Home Insurance Policy

March 25, 2014 04:30pm

Dog Owners and their Home Insurance Policy

As stated in an article in Property Casualty 360, “Just like people, dogs have their good days and bad days. Dog bites can be serious, resulting in severe injuries or even death, as well as emotional damage. As a result, bites can also carry a considerable price tag.”

“According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites accounted for more than one-third of all homeowners insurance liability claim dollars paid out in 2012, costing more than $489 million. State Farm alone reports it paid more than $108 million as a result of dog bites in 2012.”

A majority of home owners have a dog. Depending on what breed of dog you own it could be difficult to buy a home insurance policy that includes liability for the actions of your dog.

Insurance companies may limit or exclude coverage, or in the worst case may refuse to insure your home if you have one of the following commonly listed breeds: Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Chow Chows, German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, Presa Canario Bulldogs, Great Danes, Boxers, Akitas and Wolf Hybrids.

Companies will specifically ask on the application for home owner’s insurance, “Do you own a dog?” They will also ask the breed of the dog and whether or not it has any history of biting or aggressive behavior. Based on the breed of the dog and the dog’s history the home owner’s application could be denied. There are some insurance companies that will insure your home, BUT exclude liability for your dog.

It may be helpful to know this in advance when selecting a pet, or when applying for home owner’s insurance.